The ‘Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India’ has taken a decision not to screen films featuring Pakistani artists (including actors, music directors, technicians etc).

A statement on the decision was read out to the media:

“It was decided, keeping in mind the patriotic feelings, and the national interest of our country, we the Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India, request all our member exhibitors to refrain from screening movies which have involvement of any Pakistani artist, technician, director, music director etc”

“We the Cinema Owners and Association of India, are also in the process of requesting other associations connected with the film industry to support the sentiments in the best interest of our nation.”

The film in the near future, which includes Pakistani artists are Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (Fawad Khan), Dear Zindagi (Ali Zafar) and Raees (Mahira Khan).

The Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India’ does not represent the exhibitors across the country. The impact is likely to be restricted to single-screens in the state of Maharashtra, unless others decide to support the decision.